Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Delve into Venetian history on a tour showcasing the city's most iconic structures—St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace—as an expert guide sheds light on the stories behind both iconic attractions. Skip the line into the legendary St. Mark's Basilica, where you’ll wander through the mosaic-clad interior and even step onto the balcony overlooking Piazza San Marco—reserved for only a select few! Then, continue to the Doge's Palace and step into the political heart of a powerful empire.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Unfortunately due to the nature of this tour it is not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or with wheelchairs, or strollers.
Due to the religious nature of St. Mark's Basilica, all individuals regardless of gender must cover their shoulders and knees. You can bring extra covering (scarves, etc) to put on just before entering St. Mark's. Walks cannot be held responsible for those denied entry.
Sites visited during this tour are subject to occasional closures due to holy observances, high tides, and/or flooding. If a site closes, your guide will tour the exterior of the site. If time permits, we will reach out to you prior to your tour. If the local municipality restricts access due to high tide and there are no walkways available, it is the client’s responsibility to bring appropriate footwear (e.g., boots). For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.
No refund will be provided if high tide prevents certain parts of the tour, but adjustments to the route will be made for client safety and comfort.
If access is restricted due to private events inside St. Mark's Basilica and/or Doge's Palace, we cannot be held responsible. This is a situation beyond our control. No refund will be issued.
This tour is non-refundable. All guests must supply their full name that matches a valid ID at the time of the booking. Should you fail to provide these, your reservation will be canceled. Name changes are not permitted.
Due to limited terrace ticket availability, access to the Pala d'Oro (Golden Altar) will be offered on select dates instead. This adjustment ensures you avoid long queues and still enjoy the basilica’s most treasured highlights during peak seasons.
Please note that a photo ID is required to visit the St. Marks Basilica. Failure to bring an ID can result in the security staff refusing your entrance to the monument.
If you cancel at least 7 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 7 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
Pre-reserved ticket to the Doge's Palace (25 €)
Local English-speaking guide
Exclusive access to St. Mark's Basilica terraces
Exclusive Early Entry to the Doge's Palace (8 AM only)
Skip-the-line ticket for St. Mark's Basilica (St. Marks Basilica + Museum 24€)
Headsets when necessary
Gratuities
Hotel Pick-Up/Drop-Off
Lunch
Piazza San Marco
Begin in the world-famous St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) and take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking space laid out in front of you. Your guide will lay the foundation for your experience, setting the scene of centuries of Venetian history under the famed arched portico.
Basilica di San Marco
Get special access into the pristine St. Mark’s Basilica, skipping past the long lines and straight into its opulent interior. Wander beneath the mosaics in the company of a local guide who’s especially skilled at reviving the past through storytelling and expert knowledge. Marvel at the mosaics and more of the basilica’s treasures, then take a walk out onto the balcony for a once-in-a-lifetime view overlooking Piazza San Marco, the Doge's Palace, and the Venetian lagoon.
Explore Venice’s top attractions—St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace—on a private guided tour.
Small Group: Explore Venice’s top attractions—St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace—Exclusive Doge's Palace Early Entry - 8 AM only
4,974 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Deborah M,
Oct 15, 2025
- Viator
Fantastic tour! Do not miss this one. Nico is the best! I learned more on this tour then past visits.
Jeffrey C,
Oct 13, 2025
- Viator
This tour was EXCELLENT. The tour leader did an detailed job withy logistics and provided great history in an easily understood manner. His English was excellent and easily understood. I would certainly take this tour again.
Joshua A,
Oct 13, 2025
- Viator
So I was a little apprehensive when realizing I could have booked these tours directly with the venues instead of a tour agency, which would have saved me money, but our tour guide Filippo M made it worth every penny and then some. He was not only extremely knowledgeable about the artifacts, history and general information of these historic sites, but was absolutely hilarious, lots of jokes. If he no longer wanted to be a tour guide he could be a very successful comedian (no joke, pardon pone)!!! The sites themselves I would give a 8.5/10 rating as Doge Palace was extremely interesting and full of history and Saint Marks Basillca was absolutely incredible. To imagine that they built the place more than three centuries ago is unbelievable. Tons of beautiful mosaics and rich history. Although our tour guide made it a 10/10 (mind you I very rarely give “10’s”). Lots of walking, steps and climbing, so would not recommend it for someone who is either not fit or disabled. Overall wonderful experience.
Jane M,
Oct 10, 2025
- Viator
Excellent tour taking in Doge’s palace and St Marks Basilica. These tours are all about the leader. Magdalena was excellent, knowledgable, great English and easy to understand accent. Just the right enough information to keep you interested but not overloaded
Ellen S,
Oct 10, 2025
- Viator
Guide did a great job. Very knowledgeable, and kept everyone together as it was very crowded. Lots of stairs, though.
Operated by Walks - Italy & Spain